Turkey Creek Landing

For Oklahomans looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in a peaceful lakeside environment, Turkey Creek Landing offers a unique opportunity. Located on the serene Pine Creek Lake near Ringold, this campground, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), promises a quiet escape with direct access to the water. It’s a place where the focus is on the natural surroundings and the timeless joys of camping, rather than extensive modern amenities.

Turkey Creek Landing is part of the larger recreational offerings around Pine Creek Lake, a hidden gem in southeastern Oklahoma. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere, appealing to campers who seek solitude and a close connection with nature. While some recent reviews highlight a need for upkeep in certain areas, the core appeal of Turkey Creek Landing remains its advantageous location by the lake and the promise of a peaceful haven. Visitors often seek out this campground for its access to fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Pine Creek Lake area.

The ambiance here is undeniably peaceful, especially if you prioritize a serene natural setting over highly developed park facilities. It’s a place where you can launch your boat for a day on the lake, cast a line for some local fish, or simply relax by the water's edge. The opportunity to view wildlife and enjoy the sounds of the outdoors without significant distractions is a key draw. While it may require campers to be more self-reliant regarding campsite amenities, the tranquil environment and lakeside access make it a compelling choice for the prepared and patient outdoor enthusiast in Oklahoma.

Turkey Creek Landing is situated on Pine Creek Park Rd, Ringold, OK 74754, USA. This address places it directly on the upper reaches of Pine Creek Lake, specifically where the Little River flows into the lake. Ringold itself is a small, unincorporated community located in Pushmataha County, in the southeastern region of Oklahoma.

Accessibility to Turkey Creek Landing is generally good for Oklahomans traveling by car or RV. From larger towns and cities in Oklahoma, you would typically use state highways to reach the Ringold area. For instance, from Broken Bow, one would travel Highway 3 west for approximately 28 miles to the entrance sign, then follow the access road north about 5 miles to the campground. As a US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) managed park, the main access roads are typically well-maintained.

The campground's location on Pine Creek Lake is its major advantage. It offers immediate access to the lake for various water-based activities, which is a prime draw for campers. While the physical address leads to a specific road, the "landing" implies proximity to a boat ramp or direct lake access. Campers looking for a peaceful, secluded spot away from the more bustling tourist areas like Broken Bow or Hochatown will find Turkey Creek Landing's location ideal. It provides a genuine escape into the natural beauty of the Kiamichi Mountains region, surrounded by hardwood and pine forests.

Turkey Creek Landing, as a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) campground, offers a range of services, though some public feedback indicates varying levels of maintenance for older facilities. The core offerings are designed to provide essential camping support for a lakeside experience.

• Campsites: The campground features 30 campsites. These include both RV sites and primitive sites for tent camping.

• Electrical Hookups: 10 of the 30 campsites are equipped with electrical and water hookups, providing 30 amp service. This is convenient for RVers and those who require power for their camping units.

• Water Hookups: Along with the electrical hookups, these 10 sites also offer water connections.

• New Restrooms: Recent reviews mention "new restrooms are nice," indicating improvements in basic sanitation facilities, likely including flush toilets.

• Primitive Vault Toilets: In addition to modern restrooms, some primitive vault toilets are also available, catering to different areas of the campground.

• Boat Ramp: Given its "Landing" designation and location on Pine Creek Lake, a boat ramp is available, providing easy access for launching boats and other watercraft onto the lake.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RVs to dispose of wastewater.

• Group Picnic Area: While individual site amenities may vary, there is at least one group picnic area available, suitable for larger gatherings.

• Swimming Area: The campground is noted to have a swimming area, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake's waters safely.

It's important for prospective campers to note that while amenities like new restrooms are present, public reviews suggest that other infrastructure like picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds may be in poor condition or missing, indicating a need for campers to be prepared with their own functional equipment if these are desired. There are no shower facilities directly at Turkey Creek Landing, as highlighted by official COE information.

Despite some reported maintenance issues, Turkey Creek Landing possesses several key features and highlights that make it attractive for specific types of campers:

• Direct Lake Access on Pine Creek Lake: Its location on the upper reaches of Pine Creek Lake is a significant highlight, offering immediate access for boating, fishing, and water-based recreation in a less crowded area compared to some of Oklahoma's larger lakes.

• Peaceful and Quiet Environment: Reviewers consistently mention the campground as a "peaceful haven" and a place for "peace and quiet." This makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude and a break from noisy environments.

• Fishing Opportunities: Pine Creek Lake is known for good fishing, with species like largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, and saugeye. The campground's location provides excellent access for anglers.

• New/Updated Restrooms: The presence of "nice" and "new restrooms" (including flush toilets) is a considerable highlight, providing essential, clean facilities for campers.

• Variety of Campsites: Offering both RV sites (with electric and water hookups) and primitive tent sites allows the campground to cater to diverse camping preferences.

• Managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE): Being a COE park implies a certain level of natural resource management and adherence to federal regulations, often meaning a focus on outdoor recreation and environmental preservation.

• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding hardwood/pine forests and proximity to the lake offer opportunities for bird and wildlife viewing, including deer, raccoons, and various bird species.

These features collectively define Turkey Creek Landing as a prime spot for those prioritizing a quiet lakeside experience, particularly for fishing, boating, and enjoying nature, provided they are prepared for the potentially rustic condition of some older amenities.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Turkey Creek Landing typically operates under federal fee structures rather than traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers." However, there are standard discounts and policies that can benefit campers:

• Affordable Rates: Camping fees are generally set at reasonable daily rates, making COE campgrounds a cost-effective option for many. For Turkey Creek, rates are noted as around $15 for electric sites and $10 for primitive sites, as of past public information.

• Federal Pass Discounts: Holders of the America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass (specifically the Senior Pass and Access Pass) typically receive a 50% discount on standard campsite fees. This is a significant saving for eligible campers.

• Online Reservations: Campsites can be reserved online via Recreation.gov or by phone, allowing campers to secure their spot in advance, especially during peak seasons (March to October).

• First-Come, First-Served Sites: While many sites are reservable, some COE parks might also have a portion of sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.

• Extended Stays: COE parks usually have a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period. While not a "promotion," it allows for longer, sustained camping experiences, which can be seen as a benefit for those planning extended trips.

It is crucial for prospective campers to always check the official Recreation.gov website or contact the Turkey Creek Landing gatehouse or the main Pine Creek Lake office for the most current pricing, reservation policies, specific site availability, and any updated information regarding federal pass acceptance.

For inquiries, reservations, or any specific questions regarding Turkey Creek Landing, the most direct contacts are typically through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) park management.

• Address: Pine Creek Park Rd, Ringold, OK 74754, USA

• Gate House Phone: (580) 876-3720. This number is often listed as the direct contact for the campground gatehouse, where attendants can assist with permits and immediate park information.

• Mobile Phone: +1 580-876-3720. This mobile number provides an additional way to reach the park, suggesting good accessibility for communication.

• Reservations: For booking campsites, the official platform is Recreation.gov. You can search for "Turkey Creek Park" or "Pine Creek Lake" to find available sites and make reservations. Online booking is often the most reliable method, especially during peak seasons.

• General Pine Creek Lake Information: For broader information about Pine Creek Lake recreation areas, including Turkey Creek Landing, you can often find details on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa District website (swt.usace.army.mil/Locations/Tulsa-District-Lakes/Oklahoma/Pine-Creek-Lake/).

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially for current conditions, fire restrictions, or specific campsite details, as the gatehouse staff can provide the most up-to-date information.

For Oklahoma locals, Turkey Creek Landing on Pine Creek Lake offers a compelling and highly suitable option for their camping and outdoor recreation needs, particularly for those seeking a tranquil lakeside experience. Despite some acknowledged areas needing upkeep, its core advantages make it a valuable local gem.

Firstly, its location in southeastern Oklahoma provides a convenient escape for residents across the state, offering a peaceful retreat without excessive travel. Oklahomans can easily access this natural haven for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of Pine Creek Lake and the surrounding Kiamichi Mountains. The direct lake access for fishing and boating is a significant draw, allowing locals to enjoy their favorite water activities in a less crowded setting than some of the state's more bustling lakes.

Secondly, Turkey Creek Landing's emphasis on quiet, nature-focused camping aligns with the desires of many Oklahomans seeking a genuine outdoor experience. The presence of both RV and primitive tent sites, coupled with essential amenities like electrical hookups (at some sites) and new restrooms, provides a balanced approach to comfort and natural immersion. While some facilities may require campers to be more self-reliant, this aspect can appeal to those who value a more rustic and less commercialized camping adventure. The affordability of COE campgrounds further adds to its suitability for local families and individuals looking for cost-effective recreation.

Finally, by choosing Turkey Creek Landing, Oklahomans support their state's public lands and the efforts to maintain these recreational areas, even as improvements are continuously needed. It's an opportunity to discover a quieter side of Oklahoma's natural landscape, enjoy quality time outdoors, and foster a deeper connection with the state's beautiful lakes and forests. For the prepared and appreciative local camper, Turkey Creek Landing remains a valuable destination for peace, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.